The Ogun State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has warned intending pilgrims to be cautious of strategies used by drug traffickers to conceal illicit substances in their luggage.

The state Commander, Tijani Rabe, gave the warning while receiving the Executive Secretary of the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (OGMPWB), Ajibola Taiwo, and his management team at the NDLEA headquarters in Abeokuta.

Rabe reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to sustaining collaboration with the pilgrims’ board to educate intending pilgrims on the dangers of drug trafficking. He emphasised the importance of sensitising travellers on the tactics employed by traffickers and pledged to involve the board in NDLEA’s awareness programmes to expose new smuggling methods.

According to him, the country’s image is often at stake whenever a pilgrim is caught with illicit substances abroad. He urged intending pilgrims to remain vigilant, describing the partnership between the agency and the board as vital in ensuring they are well-informed about drug laws in both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.

Earlier, the board’s secretary commended NDLEA for its continued support in enlightening pilgrims over the years. He said preparations for the 2026 Hajj were already underway and called on the agency to maintain its active role in educating travellers before the exercise.

“As a major stakeholder in Hajj operations, it is crucial that NDLEA is fully informed about the 2026 itinerary and ready to engage our pilgrims on drug-related issues,” he said.